Unpolished Rajamudi Rice – Karnataka Heirloom Red Rice

Dhatu Organics Rajamudi Rice is unpolished Rajamudi, the heirloom red rice of Karnataka. It has a reddish-brown bran, a nutty, earthy flavour and a slightly chewy bite, and it is delicious with sambar, saaru, curries and curd. Because it is unpolished, the bran and germ stay on the grain.

What is Rajamudi rice? Rajamudi is a traditional red rice variety from the Malnad and Mysuru region of Karnataka. Its name is often explained as "the king's share": the rice is traditionally associated with the Wadiyar kings of Mysore, to whom farmers are said to have offered it.

Today it is one of Karnataka's best-loved heritage rices.

Unpolished: the red bran layer is kept, so it has more fibre than white rice.

Natural colour: the red-brown colour comes from natural anthocyanin pigments in the bran.

Taste: nutty and earthy, with grains that stay separate when cooked.

How to cook Rajamudi rice

Rinse 2–3 times until the water runs clearer.

Soak for 30–60 minutes (optional, but it gives a softer grain).

Cook 1 cup rice with 2½ cups water: simmer covered for 30–35 minutes, or pressure-cook for 3–4 whistles.

Rest for 10 minutes before opening. The grain stays tender with a slight chew.

Rajamudi works for everyday rice, bisi bele bath, pongal, lemon rice and curd rice. It can also be mixed half-and-half with white rice while your family gets used to it.

Which pack should I buy? The rice is the same in every size. Choose 1kg to try it, 5kg for regular use, and 10kg if Rajamudi is your everyday rice.

Frequently asked questions Is Rajamudi rice the same as red rice?Rajamudi is one specific red rice variety from Karnataka. There are many red rices across India; Rajamudi is known for its nutty flavour and separate grains. Why does Rajamudi take longer to cook than white rice?The bran is kept on, so water takes longer to reach the grain. Soaking for 30–60 minutes shortens the cooking time. I have diabetes. Can I eat Rajamudi rice?Rajamudi is an unpolished whole grain, but it is still rice and a carbohydrate food. Please ask your doctor or dietitian how it fits into your meal plan. How should I store it?Keep airtight in a cool, dry place. Unpolished rice keeps its natural bran oils, so use it within a few months for the best flavour.

Read more on our rice page, or try red poha and black rice.